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Why is rainwater illegal in Colorado?
Colorado has been the only state with an outright ban on residential rain barrels and one of just four states that restrict rainwater harvesting. Water law experts say rain barrels are only technically illegal, because proving they injure the water rights of other users is nearly impossible.
Is collecting rainwater illegal in Colorado?
Water laws are so strict in Colorado that rainwater collection is virtually prohibited. The doctrine is written into the state’s Constitution. On Monday, Colorado representatives voted to allow people to store up to 110 gallons of the rainwater that flows off their roof.
Why is rainwater collection illegal in some states?
Some states and towns may have regulations on the amount of rainwater you may harvest. Collection amount regulations are in place because any rainwater you harvest is rainwater that won’t go into nearby streams, ponds, and other natural bodies of water—and that has the potential to disrupt ecosystems.
Who owns the rain in Colorado?
While laws about rainwater collection are often murky, Colorado’s are quite clear: Homeowners do not own the rain that falls on their property. (Update: As of June 28, two new laws allow Coloradans to collect rain legally.)
How do water rights work in Colorado?
A water right is a right to use a portion of the public’s water resources; Water right owners may build facilities on the lands of others to divert, extract, or move water from a stream or aquifer to its place use; and. Water right owners may use the streams and aquifers for the transportation and storage of water.”
Is collecting rainwater in Colorado illegal in 2021?
Quick Facts. Most homeowners in Colorado are now allowed to use rain barrels to collect rainwater. A maximum of two rain barrels with a combined storage of 110 gallons or less are allowed at each household. Collected rainwater may be used to irrigate outdoor lawns, plants or gardens.